by 
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) has been detected in a herd of camels inside a barn in Qatar. The virus in the camels continues to be linked to two confirmed human infections from October 18 and 29, 2013.
Researchers from Erasmus Medical Center within the Netherlands have confirmed the existence of MERS-CoV in three camels inside a herd of 14 animals with which both human cases had contact. The confirmations were made with support in the National Institute of Public Health insurance and Environment (RIVM), the planet Health Organization (WHO) and also the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
As a precautionary measure, the 14 camels in the farm happen to be isolated. All the camels were asymptomatic or had mild symptoms when the samples were taken and remained so during the following 40 days. Scientific study has also screened all farm workers and others who were in close contact with the two human cases C diagnostic tests were negative for all contacts.
This latest finding indicates the high likelihood that camels could be have contracted MERS-CoV. However, the researchers maintain there’s still too little information to indicate what role the camels have in the possible transmission from the virus. The final Council of Health is closely working with RIVM and Erasmus to test additional samples using their company animal species and in the environment around the barn. Also, tests are being conducted on a national level to investigate the infection risk among people who are in close contact with animals.
People who’re at high-risk of infection from the MERS-CoV should avoid contact with animals when visiting farms where the virus is believed to potentially be? circulating. For all others, general hygienic measures should be followed, including regular hand washing before and after touching animals, avoiding connection with sick animals and following food hygiene guidelines.
On Dec 1, 2013 Who had been informed of an additional three lab-confirmed installments of infection with MERS-CoV within the Uae.
All three cases are from one family in Abu Dhabi C a 32-year-old mother who died on Dec 2; a 38-year-old father who’s in critical condition; as well as their eight-year-old son, that has mild respiratory symptoms. The earliest start of illness was on Nov 15. There was no travel history linked to either mom or father there continues to be no known contact with another confirmed case or with animals.
During hospitalization, mom gave birth to a young child. The eight-year-old son’s illness was detected throughout an epidemiological investigation of family contacts. Further exams are ongoing for others who have been in close contact with the family, including healthcare workers and also the newborn.
The Who had been also informed of two deaths from previously-confirmed installments of MERS-CoV. Both patients were from Qatar and died on Nov 15 and Nov 21, respectively.
Globally, from September 2012 to date, WHO has been informed of a total of 163 lab-confirmed cases of MERS-CoV, including 71 deaths.
